The U.S. Catholic Bishops have called for a second Fortnight for Freedom, a two week period of prayer and action, to address many current challenges to religious liberty, including the August 1, 2013, deadline for religious organizations to comply with the HHS mandate; Supreme Court rulings that could redefine marriage, and religious liberty concerns in areas such as immigration and humanitarian services.  The Fortnight will take place from June 21 (the vigil of the feasts of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher) to July 4 (Independence Day). 

  Fortnight for Freedom Opening Mass
Friday, June 21, 12 noon
St. Joseph Cathedral
Celebrated by Bishop Frederick F. Campbell  

Visit the Diocesan Office for Social Concerns’ webpage to read Bishop Campbell’s recent letter on religious liberty, review statements and prayer resources from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and learn how you can play an important part in defending our religious freedom, the very foundation of all our liberties.

For worship aids for Fortnight for Freedom,
please visit the Office for Divine Worship's webpage

Response for Oklahoma Tornados 

In response to the devastation caused by tornados in central Oklahoma the past few days, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is helping those affected. Services include emergency assistance funds for food, shelter, clothing and other necessities; financial assistance vouchers; networking with other agencies serving those affected; and counseling services.

To help with the long-term recovery process, Catholic Charities OKC has set-up a disaster relief fund. All donations made to this fund will support recovery for victims  -- no donations will be diverted for other purposes or administrative costs.  

To donate to the fund, visit www.catholiccharitiesok.org, call 405-523-3000, or mail donations (with “tornado recovery” in the memo line) to our Diocesan Finance Office (198 East Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215) or directly to Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, 1501 N. Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73106. 

For more information, go to the Oklahoma City Archdiocesan website or contact the Office for Social Concerns at 614-241-2540 or socmailbox@colsdioc.org.

  Care Enough To Act
Learn more about our Catholic Charities.

In addition to parish-based efforts that serve the poor and vulnerable, there are several diocesan-sponsored agencies and organizations that respond to need and act in our name as members of the Church.
Learn how you can help.

In an ongoing effort to protect children, to provide safe environments for them, the Catholic Church mandates training as well background checks and provides further education and resources for all adults working with children.   Diocese of Columbus details here. 

Read USCCB resources.
View  Vatican resource page.
View USCCB media discussion site.
Fresh perspectives from the media on this issue: View